The total consumer confidence indicator decreases by 2.1 percentage points in July 2013

In July 2013 the total consumer confidence indicator decreases by 2.1 percentage points compared to its level 3 months ago which is due to the decreased confidence of both urban and rural inhabitants – by 1.5 and 4.0 percentage points respectively.

The consumers’ opinions about the development of the general economic situation in the country over the last 12 months and their expectations about the next 12 months are more pessimistic compared to the previous survey, as a result of which the balance indicators decrease by 1.8 and 7.4 percentages points respectively. As regards the unemployment prevailing forecasts are for a reduction of the personnel over the next 12 months, and according to the urban population it is going to be with an even higher rate.

In comparison with April 2013 a decrease of the pessimism in the consumers’ assessments about the changes in the financial situation of their households over the last 12 months is observed but their expectations for the next 12 months are more unfavourable.

The assessments about the change of consumer prices over the last 12 months are more moderate in comparison with the opinions registered 3 months earlier as a result of which the balance indicator decreases by 11.1 percentage points. The inflation expectations for the next 12 months are also less intense.

In July, the majority of the consumers continue to assess the economic situation in the country as unfavourable for savings although their relative share decreases in comparison with the previous survey.

The last inquiry registers a slight improvement (of 2.8 percentages points) in the total assessment of the present situation to make major purchases of durable goods as the intentions of the consumers to make such expenditures over the next 12 months are more favourable.